Stefannie Emerson joined the Gates Institute at the University of Colorado Anschutz in January 2026 as Chief Operating Officer, where she oversees the strategic and operational functions supporting the Institute’s rapid growth and translational mission. She partners closely with leaders across campus to strengthen alignment, coordination, and impact.
Stefannie brings deep experience across academic medical centers and health system operations and is widely recognized for her collaborative leadership style, strong institutional knowledge, and ability to work effectively across complex stakeholder environments. Prior to joining the Gates Institute, she served as System Vice President of Planning and Strategic Development for SCL Health (now Intermountain Health), leading enterprise strategy and business development initiatives across Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. Earlier in her career, she was Vice President of Business Development for CU Medicine.
Stefannie holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Colorado and a Master of Business Administration from Regis University in Denver.